Q I had a functional IR repeater system - Speakercraft gear - that somehow disrupts the IR signal getting to my new AT&T U-Verse set-top box. If the distribution block is plugged into the power the U-Verse box will not get any kind of signal, even if the remote is right in front of the set-top box, pointed directly at the Box’s IR receiver. What could possibly be causing this? - Zac, Glendale, Calif.

Zac,

Sounds like your IR system is receiving interference from one or more (if the system is multi-room) IR receivers.  sunlight perhaps, a CF light? Plasma TV? can cause a constant stream of IR (junk) to flood the system.  Some components deal with this better than others, evidently the U-Verse does not.  There are ways of dealing with this problem.  Start by disconnecting the IR receivers one by one and see if the remote will now function when aimed directly at the AT&T;unit.  Once you find the problem IR, let us know where it is located and the type of receiver it is.  If it is next to or on the TV is it a Plasma TV? and is it a plasma proof unit?  Try relocating the receiver.  You might also wan’t to pick up an IR flasher with a visible LED built-in.  You will then be able to see when this interference stream is reduced or eliminated.

At&t;boxes have a notorious problem with IR disruption. The IR receiver is not Plasma proof and also has more trouble than most when dealing with sunlight. I have experienced repeated frustrations with the STBs. The best solution might be to get an IR distribution block that has variable outputs and finely tune the output of the emitter.

I’m having similar issues with Uverse boxes and IR distribution.  One box I cannot get to respond to a Xantech flashing emitter at all, only the Uverse remote will work on it (all other equipment is controlled accordingly).  The other setup works intermittently.  I am about to see if I can get any insight from AT&T;tech support but I am not holding my breath.

Interesting, I just had a dealer tell me about this also.  He inquired a different way though.  He said the Uverse product used a different IR spectrum, kinda like Pioneer and Sony did back in the early 90’s.

He was asking about the IR products being able to pass this new frequency of IR.

Anyone know about that?

Zac,
This is indicitive of a new wave of issues with IR repeating systems.
The AT&T;U’verse box uses a new IR code structure call RC-MM from Philips.
The MM stands for Multi-Media. This codes contains more information than previous IR codes like NEC codes most maufacturers use.
This code structure contains more information and is faster.
This RC-MM not only contains more information but the sensor in the cable box doesn’t allow for as much error in the codes as with previous IR codes.
http://www.sbprojects.com/knowledge/ir/rcmm.htm  <—- is a link for more information on Philips RC-MM codes
We at Niles have produced a new IR sensor that takes this new code structure (as well as other new IR code structures) into consideration when repeating the code.
As Product Manager on the new IR sensor I sent a number of beta IR sensors into the field to installers, dealers and End users to get their feedback as to solving the issue with the AT&T;U’verse box
It should be known that there are other devices both domestically and internationally that have this issue SkyTV, Foxtel, Pace Electronics and to a certian extent DirecTV HR2x boxes.